Is That In The Bible? 15

~ Money Is The Root Of All Evil ~

Many concepts are in the Bible—even though the exact wording is not.  For example consider the statement: “money is the root of all evil.”  This is an interesting quote since it is actually a misquote of Scripture.

Scripture  ~  “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.  But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.  For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

Comment  ~  Notice the obvious misquote leading to an entirely different meaning.  “Money is the root of all evil” versus “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

1. The subject is not money but the love of money!
2. It is not the root but a root! 
3. The object is not all evil but all kinds of evil!

Conclusion  ~  Consider each of these errors.

1. There is nothing inherently wrong with money.  What is wrong is to be in love with money.  Many things which are neither good nor bad can become a source of wrong if we become addicted to them.
2. Money is not the only root but one of the roots. 
3. Money is not necessarily a root of all sin but is a root in many kinds of sin.

Application  ~  How do you view the many riches (not just money) which God has entrusted to your care as His steward? 

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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